Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna Brown.
Anna, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I went back to school to study clothing design after moving to Chicago in 2000. We moved to the Pilsen neighborhood at that time, and have never lived anywhere else! My studio space has evolved over the last 15 years as my business has developed, and I now work out of a beautiful new storefront studio in the neighborhood.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It’s been a huge challenge! Creating a clothing line is in itself an incredible challenge: there are so very many elements to creating a well-fitting garment, and an independent designer has to keep track of all of them. I’ve been lucky to find some amazing people to work within Chicago to help with pattern adjustments, sample sewing, fitting and pattern grading, material sourcing, garment production, as well as other creative souls to collaborate with.
Managing all of this, on top of the entrepreneurial challenge of running a business, has honestly at times been overwhelming, and required a laser focus for the first couple of years. Lately, I’ve been aiming for a better equilibrium in order to create some necessary space for creative thinking that can be hard to find in this business.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I create and manage a womenswear line that emphasizes inventive silhouettes and artisan finishing. We’re known for modern, architectural pieces in beautiful fabrics with unusual design details.
I’m proud to design, manufacture, and sell in Chicago, and very proud that nearly all of the contractors that I work within the city to produce these garments are women.
I think what most sets us apart is our focus on making clothes for women to be their most interesting selves. These pieces aren’t meant to define a style, but rather complement a woman’s individuality. It’s also worth nothing that nearly every garment we make has pockets, which I think is fundamental to any garment that is meant for modern life. It seems like that should be a minor detail, but it is sometimes the most important thing.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I had wonderful instructors at Columbia College Chicago, many of whom remain friends and colleagues. I recently completed a three-year residency with the Chicago Fashion Incubator at Macy’s on State Street, which was fundamental to helping define the creative direction of my business and to my own development as an entrepreneur. Andrea Reynders, the creative director there, was a true North Star for me while I was a resident there, and I trust her creative instincts and her advice implicitly.
I also thank my lucky stars to have the most wonderful family and such supportive friends, without whom I definitely wouldn’t be in this business today.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1911 S. Racine Ave, Chicago
- Website: anna-brown.com
- Email: anna@anna-brown.com
- Instagram: @anna_brown_studio
- Facebook: /annabrownstudio
Image Credit:
Jingyu-Lin, HMU Mollie Gloss, Erin Schremp, Deun Ivory, Leslie Gray, Leslie Bembinster
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